Lemania, founded in 1884 in Switzerland, became renowned for its precision chronographs and close ties to military timekeeping. During the mid-20th century, Lemania supplied watches to several armed forces, including the British Ministry of Defence, producing robust, highly legible chronographs and pilot watches. Known for their durability and accurate mechanical movements, many Lemania military watches were issued to pilots, navigators, and soldiers, cementing the brand's legacy in military horology.

What's on Offer

This Lemania Series 3 Single Pusher Chronograph is an authentic, RAF-issued timepiece from 1965, supplied to the British Royal Air Force for pilots and navigators and it is in superb vintage condition. The caseback carries the correct military engravings: "6BB/924-3306" (the RAF designation for pilot’s chronographs), the Broad Arrow property mark, and the issue number "1824/65," confirming its Ministry of Defence provenance.

The watch features an asymmetric stainless steel case designed for durability and ease of operation. The matte black dial provides superb legibility, with luminous Arabic numerals at 12 and 6, luminous dot hour plots, and a circled ‘T’ indicating the use of tritium lume, all of which remain beautifully original in a warm pumpkin hue. Two recessed sub-dials record running seconds and elapsed minutes, while the centrally mounted chronograph hand allows precise timing during flight operations.

Its single pusher chronograph is a defining feature, enabling start, stop, and reset functions via one button above the crown – a simple, robust design tailored for pilots who needed quick, reliable timing without distraction. Powered by Lemania’s renowned calibre 2220 movement, this watch is a prime example of mid-20th-century military engineering, blending accuracy, resilience, and functionality.

A true piece of British aviation history, this Lemania Series 3 is not only a highly collectible military chronograph but also a wearable reminder of the jet age of the 1960s RAF.